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MCB REPORT



March 15, 2012







GOVERNOR’S ORDER MERGES MCB & MRS



Governor Rick Snyder announced, in a February 24 news release, his executive 
order intended to enhance services for blind and visually impaired residents 
across the state: “Executive Order 2012-2 transfers the duties of the 
Michigan Commission for the Blind and Michigan Rehabilitation Services to 
other state departments, which better leverages the expertise and resources 
of these departments.”



“We’re reshaping state government so it offers a more intuitive, effective 
and efficient system of services,” Snyder said. “This executive order is an 
important step in that ongoing process. As a result, our blind and visually 
impaired residents will have better access to comprehensive information and 
resources.”



The Michigan Commission for the Blind (MCB) and Michigan Rehabilitation 
Services (MRS) currently are under the Department of Licensing and 
Regulatory Affairs (LARA).  Under the executive order, the MCB Business 
Enterprise Program (BEP) is transferred from the Commission for the Blind to 
the Department of Technology, Management and Budget (DTMB).  BEP is the 
program which oversees statutes that give the blind preference in state 
vending and food operations. The release states that BEP is “a 
responsibility that is more in line with the facility management expertise 
of DTMB.”



The release further states: “The remainder of the commission’s duties will 
move to the Department of Human Services (DHS).  A new panel, the Blind and 
Visually Impaired Services Advisory Board, will replace the Michigan 
Commission for the Blind and advise DHS on the administration of state 
programs for the blind and recommend policy changes. The board will be 
comprised of five people with interest and expertise in the needs of the 
blind.”



“Michigan Rehabilitation Services also moves to DHS. In addition, the 
executive order creates the Michigan Council for Rehabilitation Services 
within DHS. The council will advise on state functions that affect the 
ability of people with disabilities to gain employment.”



The Executive Order will have the affect of law within 60 days from its date 
of issue, unless it is rejected by the State Legislature.  The full text of 
E.O. 2012-2 is attached to this report and is also available online at 
www.michigan.gov/snyder.



As a result of the Governor’s Executive Order, State Plans for MCB, MRS and 
the Statewide Independent Living Council (SILC) must be amended to reflect 
changes called for in the Governor’s order.  As such, plans are underway to 
conduct public hearings in several cities throughout the state, tentatively 
being planned in late March, to gather consumer input on the draft 
amendments.



In the meantime, rehabilitation services will be delivered by both MCB and 
MRS as they have been and customers receiving services from the two agencies 
should notice no change in how they are being served.  Any consumer who has 
questions about how the Governor’s Executive Order will impact their support 
and service from the Commission should contact their counselor or teacher 
for clarification and reassurance.





MINI ADJUSTMENT PROGRAM IN KALAMAZOO



MCB conducted its first Mini Adjustment Program Workshop of 2012, March 4-9, 
at the Clarion Hotel and Conference Center in Kalamazoo, with 20 MCB 
consumers participating.  Commission clients attending the week-long 
Mini-Adjustment Program workshop are introduced to a variety of skills of 
blindness, such as cane travel, Braille, managing time and money, adaptive 
kitchen skills and other skills to enhance independence.



In conjunction with the workshop, the Commission also conducted an 
Employment Readiness Seminar, March 8, for ten Commission clients who have 
advanced to the job-readiness stage of their rehabilitation program. 
Consumers attending the seminars learn about various approaches to job 
searching, Michigan Works!, the Talent Bank, interview preparation and 
resume development.  They also participate in mock interviews and hear from 
local employers on their workforce needs.  Additionally, consumers receive 
information about social security benefits and work incentives, as well as 
information about the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and how it 
relates to employment of persons with disabilities.  Plans are also underway 
for three more 2012 Mini Adjustment Program and Employment Readiness 
Seminar, with likely locations being planned for Big Rapids, Pontiac and in 
the Port Huron/Lapeer area.





CONSUMER SERVICES REPORT



The Consumer Services staff continues to provide quality services to blind 
and visually impaired consumers.  This quarter, staff participated in 
various activities that enhanced options for their consumers to gain 
independence and employment.



Training



System 7 training was provided in December for counselors and teachers to 
familiarize them with changes in the system, as well as to improve data 
collection and reporting.  In January, the agency provided training for the 
teachers focusing on aspects of the 7OB report.  Areas included case 
management and program expectations.  This was a day long training that 
provided the staff with information regarding data needed to reflect the 
requirements of the 7OB report.



Additionally, the managers participated in Leadership training with MRS 
during the month of January where information was provided regarding third 
party agreements.  At this training, managers were able to obtain clear and 
concise information pertaining to the proper term for cash match agreements. 
Third party cooperative arrangements were discussed so that managers will be 
able to develop appropriate agreements.



Employment



MCB’s liaison to the National Employment Network participated in a training 
session where CSAVR representative, Kathy West-Evans, presented on the 
process of single point of contact for agencies that work with employers. 
The objective of the training was to help agencies understand the importance 
of having a single point of contact to work with the national employers, as 
well as the federal government.



MCB Consumer Services Division worked collaboratively with Community Mental 
Health to explore ways to increase referrals from CMH and to improve 
communications with CMH to identify individuals who are blind and visually 
impaired.  MCB discussed the criteria for services and the various 
technologies to assist individuals with various types of employment.  These 
trainings were held in Oakland County, Detroit and Grand Rapids.  At the 
trainings, national consultants from the Boston area analyzed the referral 
process and the employment objectives of the three sites as well as best 
practices to see how they could be shared among the groups to improve 
employment outcomes.  MCB will continue to follow up with CMH to provide 
vocational services to recipients of CMH services.  The East Region manager 
met with Carmen Totten from Macomb-Oakland Regional Center (MORC) in order 
to begin to identify codes in the CMH system that may help in identifying 
potential referrals for MCB.  The West Region manager is working with the 
Grand Rapids CMH to include a definition of legal blindness in their 
referral process so that they can refer them to MCB when appropriate.



The Central Region provided one-day training for counselors.  This training 
included a review of the standards and indicators, eligibility information, 
interagency cash transfers, as well as discussions on best practices on 
problem case management.



Summer Transition



The staff continues to work with the intermediate school districts to 
promote summer transition opportunities for blind and visually impaired 
youth.   Several transition programs are establishing goals and objectives 
for the summer.  Each of the programs will provide students with 
opportunities to gain vocational information as well as pre-employment 
skills.  Some of the programs will provide opportunities for youth to obtain 
paid employment.  The Business Enterprise Program will continue to provide 
internships for students at various locations this summer providing an 
opportunity for nine transition youth to gain work experience in the food 
service industry.  Discussion continues around the expansion of this 
internship program throughout the year.



The East Region managers met with Bill Ross of Booker T Washington Business 
Association. The purpose was to enlist his help in teaching a soft skills 
class for Detroit Public Schools summer programs from a business/employer 
prospective and to begin the discussion about the possibilities for 
assistance with placement of MCB’s consumers with small and medium sized 
businesses that may belong to his organization. We are also networking for 
placements for MCB’s youth this summer with new businesses such as 
McDonalds. MCB’s Detroit office continues to work with Detroit’s Workforce 
Board in their Education and Youth, Disability, Contracts and Finance 
committees.  The East Region manager’s role in working with these committees 
is to assure their programs are accessible to persons with disabilities, 
especially individuals who are blind and visually impaired.  This has 
increased their awareness about the need for inclusion of persons with 
disabilities.



The West Region is facilitating three interagency cash transfer agreements 
with Ionia, Ottawa and Kent Counties in cooperation with the Association for 
the Blind and Visually Impaired to provide transition programming by way of 
STEPS and Summer in the City.  College Prep 2012 is gearing up and staff are 
planning and preparing for this programming.  The flier has been dispensed 
to MCB’s website and the TCVI website and we are welcoming referrals.



Personnel



The Consumer Services Division continues to work with the personnel liaison 
to fill vacancies that occurred within the division.  During this quarter, 
the rehabilitation teacher in Escanaba accepted a position at the Wisconsin 
Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services.



The rehabilitation teacher vacancy in Kalamazoo is being covered by a recent 
VRT graduate from WMU on a fee for service arrangement through Goodwill 
Industries.  This relationship enabled MCB to provide rehabilitation teacher 
services for consumers in Southwest Michigan. This vacancy has been posted 
and candidates are being screened.  The West Region Manager position was 
posted and interviews were conducted in January.  Lisa Kisiel was selected 
for this position.  MCB congratulates Lisa on her promotion.



The Central Region has filled two vacant rehabilitation teacher positions 
this quarter with Leah Williams and Leanne Ford.  Leah Williams works in the 
Lansing Regional office and Leanne Ford works in the Gaylord office.  Leanne 
Ford has worked with MCB through the SVRC, Inc and is now a state employee. 
This region has established interview dates for the Employment Interviewer. 
This person will provide job development and job placement services for the 
region, as well as assist counselors with job ready consumers in their 
employment search.







BRAILLE AND TALKING BOOK LIBRARY REPORT (BTBL)



Circulation Statistics



BTBL circulated 20,988 items during the month of February. Digital books 
account for 78 percent, cassette books for 22 percent and Braille books for 
2 percent.



Braille and Audio Recording Download (BARD)



February 2012 statistics show that 618 individuals and 41 institutions are 
using BARD to download books, which is a combined increase of 76 BARD 
accounts since December.  During the month of February, this group 
downloaded 2,666 books and 97magazine issues.



Patron Survey



BTBL received 467 responses to the patron survey sent out last fall, 
representing 12 percent of those who are directly served by Lansing staff. 
Of those, 60 percent indicated that they were always very satisfied with 
service, 20 percent were usually very satisfied, 7 percent were always 
satisfied, 8 percent were usually satisfied, 3 percent were usually not 
satisfied and 1 percent did not answer this question. Of the 3 percent not 
satisfied, three are inmates of the Department of Corrections and two are 
residents of the Upper Peninsula who began getting direct service from BTBL 
after the subregional library in Marquette closed in 2010.





TRAINING CENTER REPORT



Return to Oakland Drive



The Training Center staff reported to the Training Center at 1541 Oakland 
Drive on Tuesday, February 22, 2012.  Everyone was pleased to be back in the 
Center after 14 months spent at the Clarion although the premises on Oakland 
Drive were not 100% completed.



Most staff offices were fairly clean, enabling staff to settle into their 
offices during the first week.  Classrooms and public areas required 
considerable cleaning before equipment and supplies could be arranged and 
put away.  The training kitchen was not available to the staff for cleaning 
until March 8, and the wood shop has been furnished but still requires 
replacement of the power boxes in the floor in order for all of the power 
woodworking equipment to be made operational.



Center management continues to work closely with LARA Office Services staff 
and staff from DTMB, as well as with the architect from M.C. Smith to bring 
this construction project to a successful conclusion.  The contractor 
continues to complete the work which still needs to be done.



Clarion, Residence Inn and Warehouse



The Clarion hotel, where staff offices and classrooms were housed, was 
vacated on Monday February 21, and left in good condition.  The Residence 
Inn which housed the training kitchen was also vacated on February 21, and 
the contract has been successfully closed out.  The warehouse was also 
emptied, but several items became infested with mold during the 14 months 
spent there.  These included:  the slate topped pool table, an antique 
upright piano, a sectional couch that was to have partially furnished the 
student lounge that is located behind the cafeteria, and the 30 dorm room 
mattresses that had just been replaced in 2008.  New mattresses have been 
ordered and should be delivered on or before Friday March 16.



Center Opening



The Center was originally scheduled to open to students on Sunday March 4th 
but with the amount of work remaining for the contractor to complete, and 
staff prevented from having access to portions of the building meant that 
all of the classrooms could not be arranged in time for that opening date. 
When the mold was discovered in the mattresses, a 2 week delay was required 
in order to allow time for new ones to be bid, approved, ordered and 
delivered.  It was also necessary to order new window treatments for the 
dormitories.  These have been selected, bid and ordered, though the date for 
delivery and installation is not yet certain.  Cellular shades were chosen, 
as these are easy to clean, durable and fairly effective in blocking extreme 
cold and heat.  This plan allows the Center to open on the 18th of March.



Security Computer



A new security computer will allow the TC staff to provide access cards to 
staff and students alike, and these cards will be immediately deprogrammed 
in the event that they are ever lost or stolen.  The computer will also 
contain an advanced security system that will protect the building and set 
off an alarm at any intrusion.  The paging system is built into this 
computer, and is reported to be accessible from each of the telephones in 
the building.



Classes will begin at 8:00 a.m. on Monday morning March 19th..  Because the 
Center is staffed 24/7 once students have arrived, and because the fire 
suppression system is operable, we will be able to have students reside 
safely inside the building even prior to arrival of the security computer. 
In addition, there is a paging system connected with the fire alarm system 
which is on site and working well.  Though it can only be accessed by a 
person standing in front of the fire alarm access panel which is located in 
Support Services, this does permit paging in an emergency and will enable 
Center staff to make the morning report to all students and staff, beginning 
immediately.



Student Census



There will be 12 students returning to the TC who left the Clarion on 
February 3.  In addition, 4 new students will arrive on Sunday March 18 to 
begin their training.  The TC plans to have 3 support services staff on hand 
for the returning students, since none of them will be familiar with the new 
Center.  This should allow enough staff to check everyone into their rooms 
and to give them tours.



Staffing



In mid-December Center instructor Karen DeVera left the TC staff to begin 
teaching in the Kalamazoo Regional office.  Karen had taught the VECP, 
vocational exploration and career planning course, which is the cornerstone 
of the TC’s employment preparation program.  She developed the curriculum 
herself, and the class is still in its infancy.  It is a pleasure to report 
that Karen DeVera returned to the Center staff in mid-January.  She has 
ordered several new kinds of assessment tools which are designed to assist 
students in learning about their aptitudes for certain career fields.  Plans 
are underway to increase the number and level of internship and volunteer 
options that will be available to students.



Congratulations go out to Mary (Aggie) Carter, who was promoted to the 
position of TC Executive Secretary on February 20, 2012, vacating her former 
position as secretary, receptionist and support staff person to the entire 
remaining Center staff.



Mini Adjustment



During the week of March 5, many Center staff took advantage of the absence 
of students, and volunteered their time at the Kalamazoo Mini.  That Mini 
program was attended by 20 participants and, from all reports came off 
without a hitch.  Appreciation goes to Bonnie Betz, Shig Toda, Pam Crooks, 
Hertha Klimp and the many TC and field staff who provided teaching services 
to the students.



Open house/Grand Opening



The MCB will be planning the Grand opening of the renovated Training Center 
some time prior to the 24th of April.  Though all of the construction finish 
work will not yet be completed, it is believed that this timely grand 
opening will be more appropriate than if it were postponed until all of the 
renovation issues are resolved.  Invitations will be going out during the 
next 2 weeks.  If you have anyone in mind who should specifically receive an 
invitation, please e-mail that person’s contact information to Aggie Carter 
at: carterm1 at michigan.gov.





ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES REPORT



The MCB Operating Budget for Fiscal Year 2012 has been developed and 
distributed to the Executive Management Team as well as the Board.  In 
addition, with MCB’s lean projected match analysis, the Commission is in 
good shape for having enough state funds to draw down all of the federal 
money.



MCB is currently in the middle of the second quarter of the Fiscal Year, and 
expenditures are right on track with a little over 41% of the budget spent. 
MCB’s goal is to spend 100% of the budget this year by having a spending 
plan that identifies how much to spend each month.  Closely monitoring 
expenditures quarterly will ensure the spending plan is followed.



With regard to Technology at MCB, an order has been placed for 80 new 
computers that will be equipped with the new version of Microsoft Office 
2010.  All JAWs users were recently upgraded to the latest version tested 
with System 7, and all users upgraded to Internet Explorer 8.  Staff is 
looking at expanding the use of Microsoft Outlook to include the scheduling 
and calendar features during this year, and the Technology Committee has 
developed just-in-time training for Microsoft Office 2010 for all JAWs users 
to coincide with the delivery of the new computers.



The Independent Living program has been a big focus over the last 3 months 
as it relates to the data in System 7.  The two RSA IL reports (IL Older 
Blind and IL Part B) that were due on December 31 shed light on areas that 
were in need of improvement.  There have been two training sessions held 
that were not as successful as staff had hoped.  However, adhoc committees 
and user groups are continuing to work to help define the issues and assist 
in developing solutions.  Training is planned for System 7 users throughout 
the remainder of this fiscal year.



The Administrative Services Section has processed over 35 Freedom of 
Information Act (FOIA) requests since the beginning of this fiscal year.



CIC Update



The MCB Consumer Involvement Council met on January 12, 2012.  Terms of 
current council members were confirmed, and there was discussion of two 
vacancies (parent representative and current MCB consumer representative) to 
be filled.  A number of motions were made regarding matters to be presented 
to the MCB Board, and the CIC chair has since contacted the board regarding 
these.  The next meeting of the CIC will be in Lansing on Thursday, April 
12, and guest Richard Bernstein has been invited to discuss transportation 
issues in the Detroit area related to individuals who are blind and visually 
impaired.



Publications Update



The Winter edition of In Focus has been mailed to library patrons and posted 
on the MCB website, and the MCB 2011 Annual Report is being distributed by 
email and posted on the MCB website this month.  As usual with all MCB 
publications, at least two formats are posted on the MCB website, and 
additional alternative formats are available upon request.









Outreach to Future Optometrists



On January 27, MCB State Director Pat Cannon gave his annual two-hour 
presentation on MCB programs and services as well as blindness awareness to 
senior optometry students at the Michigan College of Optometry at Ferris 
State University in Big Rapids.  He covered topics including an overview of 
what MCB can provide, how eye doctors can refer their patients to MCB, a 
discussion of what blindness is and what it is not, and his own experiences 
as a blind person.  Attitudes about blindness, including myths and 
stereotypes, were also discussed.  The students were very receptive to the 
information and had many questions following the presentation.



MCB Supports Michigan Braille Challenge



Once again, MCB was one of several co-sponsors of the Michigan Braille 
Challenge in Grand Rapids, held on February 18 this year.  This event, held 
every other year, was supported with a donation of $600 to the Association 
for the Blind and Visually Impaired, who organize and host the competition. 
This funding provided for the room rental, Braille paper, and Braille 
writers.



The purpose of this event is to promote Braille reading and writing skills 
among blind and visually impaired students in grades 1 through 12.  The 
students compete in the areas of Braille Speed and Accuracy, Chart and Graph 
Reading, Reading Comprehension, Proofreading, and Braille Spelling.



The Grand Rapids competition is Michigan’s only regional event, and the only 
opportunity for students to compete in Michigan for the Braille Institute of 
America’s national competition.  This year, there were 11 Michigan 
participants.  The top competitors received Meijer gift cards as prizes and 
will attend the national competition in Los Angeles June 22-23.  At the 
national competition, students compete for awards of up to $5,000 plus 
electronic Braille equipment worth up to $4,000.









VISIONS 2012



The Michigan Commission for the Blind is once again partnering with the Ann 
Arbor District Library Service for the Blind and Visually Impaired to 
present the VISIONS adaptive technology fair, held every other year. 
VISIONS 2012 will be held Wednesday, May 9, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Vendors 
from across the state will present and demonstrate their products, which 
include both adaptive devices and software for individuals who cannot read 
print due to visual or physical disabilities. This event will be held at 
Washtenaw Community College in the Morris Lawrence Building at 4800 East 
Huron River Drive in Ann Arbor.  Admission is free.



Training



The MAER Annual Conference is set for April 26-27 in Livonia. The theme of 
this year’s event is “Expanding Boundaries” and includes sessions focusing 
on topics such as autism and visual impairments, Functional Vision 
Evaluations, and ways to use an iPhone, iPad, or iTouch. Several MCB staff 
will be attending the program.



The initial “new employee survey” has been completed by MCB staff hired 
going back to mid-2010, including those individuals hired in the past couple 
months since the survey was first sent out. The results of the survey are 
currently being compiled and will be shared with the management team and the 
in-house training committee. The primary purpose of sending it to those 
hired awhile back is to determine if the content and/or format of the survey 
needs to be tweaked. Feedback received so far indicates the survey is clear 
and asking the right questions, however this will continue to be evaluated 
as time goes on.



The survey was developed with the understanding it would be given to new 
employees at the time they are first hired and again after about 60-90 days. 
The real test of the new employee orientation will be to evaluate the second 
survey completed by the new employees to determine if they are receiving the 
information they need to do their jobs. A basic principle is that of 
continuous improvement so this process will be continually evaluated as time 
goes on and changes to the orientation process will most likely be made over 
the coming months.



The Michigan Rehabilitation Conference is scheduled for November 7-9 in 
Traverse City. Coming soon will be the “call for presentations” from the 
conference program committee so anyone having an idea for a break-out 
session at the conference is encouraged to submit it for possible inclusion 
on the conference agenda.



HR



In the past 3 months, five new employees have joined the staff of MCB. They 
include Angela DeBacker, a secretary in Escanaba; Leah Williams, a rehab 
teacher in Lansing; Jessica Goodrich, a librarian at the BTBL; Ronda Martin, 
a receptionist in the Central Office; and Leanne Ford, a rehab teacher in 
Gaylord who was previously employed with MCB through SVRC.  In addition to 
these new employees, Lisa Kisiel has been promoted to the West Region 
manager, Mary Carter was promoted to the executive secretary at the Training 
Center, Cathy Cove has been promoted to the secretary 9 position in the 
Detroit Regional office, and Shannon McVoy has been promoted to the 
assistant manager in the West Region. Congratulations to all of these 
individuals.



Several other positions are currently in some stage of the hiring process. 
Those positions include an employment specialist in the Central Region, a 
secretary in the Detroit office, a rehab teacher in Kalamazoo, a BEP 
vacancy, and several student assistants in Central Office, the Training 
Center, BEP, and the library.



SAFETY



The MCB Safety Team has scheduled 3 sessions of “safety awareness” training 
for MCB staff. Two of those sessions occurred in early March – one in 
Detroit and one in Lansing. The third session is set for April 20 at MCBTC. 
The facilitators for these programs are Michigan State Police troopers. The 
feedback from the first two sessions was overwhelmingly positive. Many good 
ideas and tips were provided by the troopers on how to identify risky 
situations, how to avoid them in the first place, and what to do should a 
counselor or teacher find themselves in such a situation.



The Safety Team also continues to learn more about the risks associated with 
blood borne pathogens and what steps the agency must take to make sure that 
staff are not at risk when working with consumers. Recommendations from the 
safety team will be presented to the Director in the coming months.



A series of safety videos are available online covering a variety of subject 
matters and that information was shared with all staff so they could view 
them and learn more about particular areas of concern including blood borne 
pathogens, ergonomics, and slips, trips, and falls. These videos have been 
produced and posted by the staff at MARO and are very good.





BUSINESS ENTERPRISE PROGRAM REPORT



Training



B E P Manager Training

The 5 students who began their B E P manager training in September 2012 
successfully completed training in mid-February.  As of this writing, one of 
those students has successfully bid on a B E P facility and is slated to 
assume responsibility for it in early March.



If there is sufficient interest and if circumstances warrant, B E P 
anticipates conducting two B E P manager training classes in calendar year 
2012.  As of this writing, it is expected 5 students will participate in the 
April class.  And if possible, a second class will be conducted in October.



Alternate B E P Manager Training

Some months ago, the Elected Committee forwarded a P E V S T proposal.  As 
this new initiative was inconsistent with the Program Rules, the proposal 
was forwarded to the Attorney General (A G) for review and comment.  As of 
this writing, the A G has not yet commented on the proposal.



Sagebrush

B E P was able to secure permission for 2 staff and 2 E O C members to 
travel to the 2012 Sagebrush National Training Conference in February. The 
conference was presented by the Randolph-Sheppard Vendors of America.  The 
theme of the conference was “Merging the Present and the Future – Moving 
Forward”.  The conference, attended by about 250 people from around the 
nation, included presentations from Dan Frye, Management and Program 
Specialist for Randolph-Sheppard Program at the Rehabilitation Services 
Administration, Catriona MacDonald of Linchpin Strategies, updates from 
various S L As,  reports from various licensees, reports from teaming 
partners as well as a large and well attended product and services exhibit. 
Of particular interest during the conference were amendments to H R 7 
regarding commercialization in highway rest areas.  Amendments proposed were 
detrimental to Randolph-Sheppard highway vending locations.  With up to the 
minute reports from Ms. MacDonald, conference attendees were able to contact 
their senators and representatives to educate them about the impact of the 
proposed amendments.  Licensees as well as both consumer groups successfully 
rallied around this issue and that amendment was withdrawn.



2012 BLAST

While the Program has been excited about the prospect of participation in 
the National Association of Blind Merchants 2012 BLAST, it was also recently 
learned BLAST will not be held in 2012.  While it is rumored that is not the 
case, as of this writing, the National Association of Blind Merchants web 
site does not mention plans for BLAST 2012.  Should it be discovered BLAST 
2012 will indeed take place, at that time every effort will be made to 
provide this training to both B E P staff as well as an increased number of 
licensees.



Facilities



New Operator

B E P is happy to announce Henry Mosley, a graduate of the June 2011 class, 
has been inventoried into the Hannah Building facility in downtown Lansing.



Facility Remodeling

Each quarter, the Program has kept the Board abreast of the progress of 
several remodeling projects.  The Secretary of State remodel was completed 
ahead of time and the new café opened in mid-January.  The existing 
cafeteria remains in operation under the management of a temporary operator. 
As no other potential operator has bid on the facility, the Program 
fervently hopes one of the September 2011 class graduates will bid on the 
facility very soon.



During the temporary closing of the House of Representatives cafeteria, much 
has been accomplished.  The facility has been deep cleaned, literally from 
top to bottom.  Walls have been repainted and doors refinished.  Service 
counters have been repaired and in some cases new countertops installed. 
All food service equipment has been evaluated and, if faulty, either been 
repaired or replaced.  House Administrative Staff have been willing and 
creative partners in helping the Program update this facility in a 
compressed period.  The operator selection process is proceeding as 
recommended by the Committee and as approved by the Board with bids to have 
been submitted by March 9th. The team evaluating the bids has been named and 
will meet as soon as possible to evaluate the bids and identify the most 
qualified bidder to manage the facility.



B E P continues to wait for the approval of the County Board of 
Commissioners prior to commencing a remodel at the Ingham County Human 
Services snack bar in Lansing.  The county has contracted for a space 
utilization study and the Program hopes to learn of the County’s 
determination in the near future.  Upon securing County Board approval, the 
facility will go back on the bid line and the remodel will commence



Subsequent to the change in administration, talks with Department of Human 
Services management regarding the Grand Tower facility expansion resumed. 
The green light was recently given for this project and Program staff has 
already met with the food service designer to update current drawings which 
will accommodate the revised space for the expanded food service facility. 
This remodeled facility will include a conference room, similar in design to 
the Lewis Cass cafeteria conference room.



Plans are in progress for some updates to the Program’s only coffee house: 
Café deVille in Detroit.  Program staff is working with building management 
to update the paint, install new lighting fixtures and replace carpet.



Pending new department approval, the Program also hopes to commence 
remodeling projects at the General Office building and the State Library and 
Historical Center.



Other Information for the Board



2012 Budget

·                    Status of the business, FY 2012 as of 31 December 2012:

o       Gross sales:  $2,447,654

o       Merchandise purchases:  $1,348,645

o       Payroll expenses:  $311,982

o       Other operating expenses:  $238,613

o       Vending machine and other income:  $26,858

o       Net proceeds:  $575,272

o       Levied set-aside funds:  $61,228

o       Set-aside funds collected:  $61,696

o       Net profit to vendors (i.e., net income):  $514,044

o       Vendor earnings:  $514,044

o       Late set-aside fees by facility, as follows:

Facility 33, Detroit Main Post Office

10/2011 Late Payment         $496.00

11/2011 No Payment            $39.00

Facility 197, Fenton Swartz Creek Rest Area

10/2011 Late Payment         $117.00

Facility 72, Macomb County Public Service

11/2011 No Payment            $83.00

12/2011 No Payment            $50.00

Facility 27, Flint State Office Building

10/2011 No Payment            $6.00

11/2011 No Payment            $51.00

12/2011 No Payment            $53.00

Facility 201, Iron Mountain-Kingsford Vending Route

12/2011 No Payment            $30.00

Facility 193, House of Reps Cafeteria

10/2011 No Payment            $255.00

11/2011 No Payment            $30.00

12/2011 No Payment            $12.00

Facility 207, Hall of Justice

10/2011 No Payment            $5.00

Facility 95, Ottawa Street Cafeteria

11/2011 Late Payment         $383.00

Facility 105, Capital Building

11/2011 Late Payment         $104.00

Facility 222, Michigan State Police Headquarters

12/2011 Late Payment         $172.00

Facility 94, Hannah Building

10/2011 No Payment            $32.00

11/2011 No Payment            $36.00

12/2011 No Payment            $40.00

Facility 103, Secretary of State Cafeteria

10/2011 Late Payment         $12.00

11/2011 Late Payment         $124.00

12/2011 Late Payment         $124.00

Facility 7, Calhoun County Toeller Building

11/2011 No Payment            $8.00

Facility 58, John C Mackie Rest Area

12/2011 No Payment            $5.00

Facility 123, Muskegon-Grand Haven Vending Route

10/2011 Late Payment         $381.00

Facility 59, Justice Building

12/2011 No Payment            $9.00

Facility 64, Kent County FIA

                             11/2011 No VFMR, No Payment

                             12/2011 No VFMR, No Payment



Equipment Inventory

B E P is currently in the process of completing a full equipment inventory. 
Inventory data collected variously over the past 18 months is inconsistent 
to the point the equipment database cannot be properly reconciled. 
Consequently, the Program will enter, with departmental approval, into a 
contractual arrangement for the inventory to be completed by an independent 
contractor.  As of this writing, the BEP is in the process of soliciting 
preliminary proposals to ascertain potential cost and potential contractor 
interest.  Also as of this writing, as the BEP conducts incoming product 
inventories, it will also confirm the equipment inventory for that facility 
in preparation for the on-site contractual equipment inventory.



EOC Active Participation



The Committee continues to meet according to its established schedule, and 
several Subcommittees continue to meet.  The Workshop Subcommittee has been 
meeting with Program staff to develop the 2012 Workshop, scheduled to take 
place on March 30, 31 and April 1.  Consistent with the 2012 BEP Annual 
Workshop Theme of “Looking from the Customer’s Perspective,” BEP will soon 
begin working with the EOC and operators to explore ways and resources to 
develop and enhance promotional and marketing opportunities for each 
facility.  Staff has been researching and formulating some proposed concepts 
for dialog with the Marketing and Promotions Subcommittee at its first 
meeting after the 2012 Workshop.







EXECUTIVE ORDER
No. 2012 -2



DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATORY AFFAIRS
DEPARTMENT OF TECHNOLOGY, MANAGEMENT AND BUDGET
DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES
DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL RIGHTS
COMMISSION FOR THE BLIND
BLIND AND VISUALLY IMPAIRED SERVICES ADVISORY BOARD
MICHIGAN REHABILITATION COUNCIL
MICHIGAN COUNCIL FOR REHABILITATION SERVICES
DISABILITY CONCERNS COMMISSION



RESCISSION OF EXECUTIVE ORDER 2007-48



EXECUTIVE REORGANIZATION



WHEREAS, Section 1 of Article V of the Michigan Constitution of 1963 vests 
the executive power in the Governor; and

WHEREAS, Section 2 of Article V of the Michigan Constitution of 1963 
empowers the Governor to make changes in the organization of the Executive 
Branch or in the assignment of functions among its units that the Governor 
considers necessary for efficient administration; and

WHEREAS, Section 8 of Article V of the Michigan Constitution of 1963 
provides that each principal department shall be under the supervision of 
the Governor, unless otherwise provided by the Constitution; and

WHEREAS, there is a continued need to reorganize functions among state 
departments to ensure efficient administration; and



WHEREAS, the rehabilitation needs of Michigan residents can be best served 
by consolidation of existing programs and services; and

WHEREAS, the management of vendor facility programs is most efficiently 
performed in conjunction with other state facility management services;



NOW, THEREFORE, I, Richard D. Snyder, Governor of the state of Michigan, by 
virtue of the powers and authority vested in the Governor by the Michigan 
Constitution of 1963 and Michigan law, order the following:





1. BUSINESS ENTERPRISE PROGRAM

A. Except as specified in Section I.C. of this Order, any authority, powers, 
duties, functions, records, personnel, property, unexpended balances of 
appropriations, allocations or other funds, including the functions of 
budgeting and procurement, of the Commission for the Blind and the 
Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs relating to the Business 
Enterprise Program and other vendor licensing programs relating to the blind 
or visually impaired are transferred from the Commission for the Blind and 
the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs to the Department of 
Technology, Management and Budget, including but not limited to the 
following:

1                   The Blind and Visually Disabled Persons Act, 1978 PA 
260, MCL 393.351 to 393.369.



2                   Section 7a of the Michigan Historical Commission Act, 
1913 PA 271, MCL 399.1 to 399.1 0.



3                   Section 2 of the Limited Access Highways Act, 1941 PA 
205, MCL 252.51 to 252.64.



4                   Section 4 of the Business Opportunity Act for Persons 
with Disabilities, 1988 PA 112, MCL 450.791 to MCL 450.795.



5                   Section 208 of the Michigan Museum Act, 1990 PA 325, MCL 
399.301 to MCL 399.51 0.



B. Any authority, powers, duties, functions, records, property, unexpended 
balances of appropriations, allocations or other funds, of the Director of 
the Commission for the Blind or the Director of the Department of Licensing 
and Regulatory Affairs relating to the Business Enterprise Program or other 
vendor facilities and licensing programs relating to the blind or visually 
impaired are transferred to the Director of the Department of Technology, 
Management and Budget.

C. Any authority, powers, duties, functions, records, property, unexpended 
balances of appropriations, allocations or other funds of the Commission for 
the Blind granted by 1999 AC, R 393.16(9, 393.34 and 393.56 are transferred 
to the Director of the Department of Technology, Management and Budget.

II. THE BLIND AND VISUALLY IMPAIRED SERVICES ADVISORY BOARD

A. The Blind and Visually Impaired Services Advisory Board ("Advisory 
Board") is created as an advisory board within the Department of Human 
Services.

B. The Advisory Board shall consist of five members appointed by, and 
serving at the pleasure of, the Governor.



C. The Advisory Board members shall have a particular interest or expertise 
in the concerns of the blind or visually impaired community.

D. The Governor shall designate a member of the Advisory Board to serve as 
its Chairperson. The Chairperson shall serve at the pleasure of the 
Governor.

E. The Director of the Department of Human Services shall perform all
budgeting, procurement, and related management functions of the Advisory 
Board.

F. The Advisory Board shall do the following:

1                   Study and review the needs of the blind and visually 
impaired community in this state.



2                   Advise the Department concerning the coordination and 
administration of state programs serving the blind and visually impaired 
community.



3                   Recommend changes in state programs, statutes, and 
policies that affect the blind and visually impaired community to the 
Department.



4                   Secure appropriate recognition of the accomplishments 
and contributions of blind and visually impaired residents of this state.



5                   Monitor, evaluate, investigate, and advocate programs 
for the betterment of blind and visually impaired residents of this state.



Ill. MICHIGAN COMMISSION FOR THE BLIND

A. Any authority, powers, duties, functions, records, personnel, property, 
unexpended balances of appropriations, allocations or other funds, including 
the functions of budgeting and procurement, of the Commission for the Blind 
not previously transferred to the Department of Technology, Management and 
Budget under Section I. of this Order are transferred from the Commission 
for the Blind and the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs to the 
Department of Human Services.

B. Any authority, powers, duties, functions, records, property, unexpended 
balances of appropriations, allocations or other funds, including the 
functions of budgeting and procurement, of the Director of the Commission 
for the Blind or the Director of the Department of Licensing and Regulatory 
Affairs relative to services to the blind and visually impaired and not 
previously transferred to the Department of Technology, Management and 
Budget under Section I. of this Order are transferred to the Director of the 
Department of Human Services.

IV. MICHIGAN REHABILITATION SERVICES

Michigan Rehabilitation Services is transferred by a Type II transfer from 
the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs to the Department of 
Human Services.

Any authority, powers, duties, functions, records, personnel, property, 
unexpended balances of appropriations, allocations or other funds, including 
the functions of budgeting and procurement, of Michigan Rehabilitation 
Services are transferred from the Department of Licensing and Regulatory 
Affairs to the Department of Human Services.

V. IMPLEMENTATION OF TRANSFERS

A. Any authority, powers, duties, functions, records, personnel, property, 
unexpended balances of appropriations, allocations or other funds, including 
the functions of budgeting and procurement, used, held, employed, available, 
or to be made available to the Department of Licensing and Regulatory 
Affairs for the activities, powers, duties, functions, and responsibilities 
transferred by this Order are transferred to the receiving department.

B. The director of the department receiving the transfer, after consultation 
with the Director of the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs, 
shall provide executive direction and supervision for the implementation of 
the transfers. The assigned functions shall be administered under the 
direction and supervision of the director of the receiving department.

C. The directors of the departments impacted by this Order shall immediately 
initiate coordination to facilitate the transfers and shall develop a 
memorandum of record identifying any pending settlements, issues of 
compliance with applicable federal and state laws and regulations, or other 
obligations to be resolved.

D. The directors of the departments impacted by this Order shall administer 
the functions transferred in such ways as to promote efficient 
administration and shall make internal organizational changes as may be 
administratively necessary to complete the realignment of responsibilities 
under this Order.

VI. CREATION OF MICHIGAN COUNCIL FOR REHABILITATION SERVICES

A. The Michigan Council for Rehabilitation Services ("Council") is 
established within the Department of Human Services.

B. The Council shall include the following sixteen (16) voting members:

1. The following members are appointed by the Governor, after soliciting 
recommendations from representatives of organizations representing a broad 
range of individuals with disabilities and organizations interested in 
individuals with disabilities:

a.      One individual representing the Statewide Independent Living Council 
established under Executive Order 2007-49.



b.      One individual representing a parent training and information center 
established under Section 67 1 of the Individuals with Disabilities 
Education Act, Public Law 91-30, as amended, 20 USC 1471.



c.       One individual representing the client assistance program 
established under Section 112 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Public Law 
93- 112, as amended, 29 USC 732.



d.      One individual representing qualified vocational rehabilitation 
counselors with knowledge of, and experience with, vocational rehabilitation 
programs. The individual appointed under this paragraph shall not be an 
employee of Michigan Rehabilitation Services.



e.      One individual representing community rehabilitation program service 
providers.



f.       Four individuals representing business, industry, or labor, 
including at least one individual representing the Talent Investment Board 
created by Executive Order 201 1-1 3.



1                   g.      Four individuals representing disability 
advocacy groups,        including a cross-section of all of the following:

2

i.                    Disability advocacy groups representing individuals 
with physical, cognitive, sensory, and mental disabilities.

ii.                  Disability groups representing representatives of 
individuals with disabilities who have difficulty in representing themselves 
or are unable due to their disabilities to represent themselves.



h.      One individual representing current or former applicants for, or 
recipients of, vocational rehabilitation services.



i.        One individual representing the director of a project carried out 
under Section 121 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Public Law 93-1 12, as 
amended, 29 USC 741, providing vocational rehabilitation services grants to 
the governing bodies of an Indian tribe or to a consortium of tribal 
governing bodies.



2. The Superintendent of Public Instruction, or his or her designee, from 
within the Department of Education.

C. The Bureau Director of Michigan Rehabilitation Services shall serve as a 
non-voting ex officio member of the Council.

D. A majority of the members of the Council shall be individuals with 
disabilities and shall not be employed by the Department of Human Services. 
When appointing members of the Council, the Governor shall consider, to the 
greatest extent practicable, the extent to which minority populations are 
represented on the Council.

E. Of the members of the Council initially appointed by the Governor under 
Section VI.B., six (6) members shall be appointed for a term expiring on 
December 31, 2012, five (5) members shall be appointed for a term expiring 
on December 31, 201 3, and five (5) members shall be appointed for a term 
expiring on December 31, 2014. After the initial appointments, members shall 
be appointed for a term of three (3) years.

F. A vacancy on the Council occurring other than by expiration of a term 
shall be filled by the Governor in the same manner as the original 
appointment for the balance of the unexpired term. A vacancy shall not 
affect the power of the remaining members to exercise the duties of the 
Council.

G. Except for a member appointed under Section VI.B.1 .c. or Section 
VI.B.1.i., a member of the Council shall not serve more than two consecutive 
full terms.

VII. CHARGE TO THE COUNCIL

A. After consulting with the Talent Investment Board, the Council shall do 
all of the following:

1. Review, analyze, and advise Michigan Rehabilitation Services regarding 
the performance of the responsibilities of Michigan Rehabilitation Services 
under Sections 100 to 141 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Public Law 93-1 
12, as amended, 29 USC 720 to 753a, particularly responsibilities relating 
to all of the following:

a.      Eligibility, including order of selection.

b. The extent, scope, and effectiveness of services provided.

c.       Functions performed by state departments and agencies that affect 
or that potentially affect the ability of individuals with disabilities in 
achieving employment outcomes under Sections 100 to 141 of the 
Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Public Law 93-1 12, as amended, 29 USC 720 to 
753a.



2. In partnership with Michigan Rehabilitation Services, do all of the 
following:

a.       Develop, agree to, and review the goals and priorities of this 
state in accordance with Section 101 (a)(15)(C) of the Rehabilitation Act of 
1973, Public Law 93-1 12, as amended, 29 USC 721 (a)(15)(C).

b.       Evaluate the effectiveness of the vocational rehabilitation program 
and submit reports of progress to the federal government in accordance with 
Section 101 (a)(15)(E) of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 Public Law 93-1 12, 
as amended, 29 USC 721 (a)(15)(E).



3                   Advise the Department of Human Services and Michigan 
Rehabilitation Services regarding activities authorized to be carried out 
under Sections 100 to 141 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Public Law 93-1 
12, as amended, 29 USC 720 to 753a, and assist in the preparation of the 
State Plan and amendments to the State Plan, applications, reports, needs 
assessments, and evaluations required by Sections 100 to 141 of the 
Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Public Law 93- 112, as amended, 29 USC 720 to 
753a.

4                   Perform all other functions required by 29 USC 
725(c)(4)-(8).

5                   Perform other functions related to the Council's 
responsibilities as requested by the Governor.



VIII. OPERATIONS OF THE COUNCIL

A. The Council shall select from among its voting members a Chairperson of 
the Council and may select other officers as it deems necessary.

B. The Council shall adopt procedures consistent with federal law, Michigan 
law, and this Order governing its organization and operations.

C. A majority of the voting members of the Council serving constitutes a 
quorum for the transaction of the Council's business. The Council shall act 
by a majority vote of the voting members of the Council serving.

D. The Council shall meet at least four times per year in a place that the 
Council determines necessary to conduct Council business and conduct forums 
or hearings as the Council determines appropriate.

E. The Council shall conduct all business at public meetings held in 
compliance with the Open Meetings Act, 1976 PA 267, MCL 15.261 to 15.275. 
Public notice of the time, date, and place of each meeting shall be given in 
the manner required by the Open Meetings Act, 1976 PA 267, MCL 15.261 to 
15.275.

F. The Council shall carry out its functions as required by 29 USC 
725(d)-(e) and 29 USC 725(g).

IX. DISABILITY CONCERNS COMMISSION

All the authority, powers, duties, functions, records, personnel, property, 
unexpended balances of appropriations, and allocations or other funds, 
including the functions of budgeting and procurement, of the Disability 
Concerns Commission, created by Executive Order 2009-40, previously 
transferred by Executive Order 201 1-4 from the Department of Licensing and 
Regulatory Affairs to the Department of Civil Rights by a Type I transfer, 
are hereby transferred to the Department of Civil Rights by Type Ill 
transfer as defined by Section 3 of Act No. 380 of the Public Acts of 1965, 
as amended, being Section 16.1 03 of the Michigan Compiled Laws.

X. ABOLISHED ENTITIES

A. The Michigan Rehabilitation Council, created by Executive Order 2007-48, 
is abolished, and Executive Order 2007-48 is rescinded.

B. The Commission for the Blind, created by MCL 393.352, and the Commission 
Board, created by 1999 AC, R 391 .I et seq, are abolished.

C. The position of Director of the Commission for the Blind created by MCL 
393.352(1) is abolished.

D. The Disability Concerns Commission, created by Executive Order 2009-40, 
is abolished.

XI. MISCELLANEOUS

A. All rules, orders, contracts, plans, and agreements relating to the 
functions transferred to the Department of Technology, Management and Budget 
and Department of Human Services by this Order lawfully adopted prior to the 
effective date of this Order by the responsible state agency shall continue 
to be effective until revised, amended, or rescinded.

B. Any suit, action, or other proceeding lawfully commenced by, against, or 
before any entity transferred to the Department of Technology, Management 
and Budget and Department of Human Services by this Order shall not abate by 
reason of the taking effect of this Order. Any lawfully commenced suit, 
action, or other proceeding may be maintained by, against, or before the 
appropriate successor of any entity affected by this Order.

C. The invalidity of any portion of this Order shall not affect the validity 
of the remainder of the Order, which may be given effect without any invalid 
portion. Any portion of this Order found invalid by a court or other entity 
with proper jurisdiction shall be severable from the remaining portions of 
this Order.



In fulfillment of the requirements of Section 2 of Article V of the Michigan 
Constitution of 1963, the provisions of this Order shall be effective 60 
days after the filing of this Order.

Given under my hand and the Great Seal of the state of Michigan this 24th 
day of February, in the Year of our Lord Two Thousand Twelve.

GOVERNOR

BY THE GOVERNOR:

SECRETARY OF STATE

FILED WITH SECRETARY OF STATE



On 2-24-2012 at 11:00 a.m.
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